Q&A: Ghanaian winger Ernest Asante discusses reasons for inking a new deal with IK Start and expectations for the season

The former Fetteh Feyenoord winger has been in fantastic form in the Norwegian top-flight for IK Start, scoring two goals and providing an assist in the opening three games of the season.

Last two seasons while Start were in the second-tier of Norwegian football, it was the 25-year-old who steered their return to the Eliteserien, scoring important goals and providing crucial assists to help them make a return last season and scoring 6 league goals.

His brace against champions Stromsgodset in the opening weekend of the season took his season took his league’s tally to 19 in 83 outings for Start.

The Sunyani-born lightening paced winger discusses his expectations for the current season, his new contract and also talks about his side’s chances of finishing in a respectable on the table in a session with IK Start’s journalist.

Why did you decide to extend your contract here with the club?

The lightning quick flank player has signed the papers making him the Start plays out in 2016 . His original contract expired after this season.

Asante scores

This means so much to me. The club want me to stay extend my stay here and the coach has confidence in me. They believe in me and that I can make a difference.

How do you like in Kristiansand?

I feel very well here. This is also an important reason to extend the contract. In Kristiansand, I have a Christian community, a girlfriend and friends. It’s almost like a family to me.

Since arriving at Start from a Belgian second division side in January 2011, the winger has played 96 games in all competitions for the club and has always been in his favourite number 9 jersey.

Getting to the start was important for me and my career. I thoroughly enjoyed myself and got a fresh start after struggling a bit in Belgium.

How has your team-mates Owello and Vikstøl been influential for you in the season?

flamboyant Asante celebrates goal with Nigerian Samuel

Solomon Owello has meant a lot to me. We have had close and good contact all the way . Moreover, Rolf Daniel was important. He always works hard in training and combat. I always try to learn from him.

What has been the highlight of your entire period at Start since you joined in 2011?

I have to mention the home game against Sogndal last year. It was fantastic to play in front of so many people.

You have scored 19 league goals for Start – Which one brings the best of memories to you?

The scoring against Brann last year and the defeat against Sarpsborg 08 and so I do not forget the goal against the Strømmen in 2012. Then I used my weaker foot to score.

What are your ambitions for the season?

I want to do well for the club and work hard. Both the team and I personally will be even better. The best time ahead.

You are one of the fastest players in the Eliteserien, are you working to become even faster?